Press Releases

Monday, June 23, 2014

As if Delightful Pastries’ sandwiches were not enticing enough already, now they have gotten even better with three new sauces. Make each bite of your sandwich even more delectable with Garlic Aioli, Thai Cowboy (Buttermilk, Ranch, and Sriracha Sauce) and Mustard Worcestershire Sauces. All are available now at the Chicago French Market location, 131 N. Clinton, (312) 234-9644 and at the Delightful Pastries Cafe in Old Town at 1710 N. Wells St., (312) 255-0724, amongst other savory and sweet goodies found at Delightful Pastries. Visit http://www.delightfulpastries.com for more information.

Saturday, June 21, 2014

There’s always a reason to celebrate at Delightful Pastries and June 22 is most certainly no exception. National
Éclair Day is June 22. The mini pastry ($30/pound for about 30), made with choux dough
filled with custard and a drizzle of icing on the outside, is the
perfect cure for anyone with a sweet tooth. Full size éclairs are $4 each.

At such a delightfully small size, make sure you buy as many as you can get your hands on.

Éclairs,
as well as other treats, can be found at all three Delightful Pastries
locations: Old Town at 1710 N. Wells St., (312) 255-0724; Jefferson Park
at 5927 W. Lawrence, (773) 545-7215, and Chicago French Market at 131
N. Clinton, (312) 234-9644. Visit http://www.delightfulpastries.com for more information.

Wednesday, June 18, 2014

Here's your chance to be a Reality TV star. ABC's popular show, "The Taste," will be casting

for season three and they are on the hunt for talent! If you think you can stand the heat, sign-up to get in the kitchen! Open casting calls for chefs interested in competing in this culinary competition series will be held in cities across the country starting Saturday, June 21 in Los Angeles. They will be in Chicago 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday, July 12 at Centered Chef Food Studios, 177 N. Ada St. #101, Chicago, IL 60607.For additional updated casting information and to apply visit: http://www.thetastecasting.com/

"The Taste" is an American cooking-themed reality competition series on ABC. It premiered on January 22, 2013. On May 14, 2013, ABC renewed "The Taste" for a second season. "The Taste" began its second season on January 2, 2014."The Taste" was listed as a returning series during ABC's upfront presentations on May 13, 2014, thus confirming a Season 3. For a sneak peek of last season’s finale, http://abc.go.com/shows/the-taste/video/VDKA0_vxzwkzu8"The Taste" is produced by Kinetic Content who create and produce cross-platform for the multi-genre content for the global television marketplace. Chris Coelen, Sam Dean, Anthony Bourdain, Nigella Lawson and Brian Smith serve as Executive Producers for the show.

ABC is an American commercial broadcast television network viewed in the United States and Canada. Throughout its history, ABC has supported its financial operations by diversifying into the press, the publishing industry, the operation of theaters, and filmmaking.

As one of the "Big Three television networks", ABC has broadcast many programs that have contributed significantly to American popular culture. These include classic series such as Zorro, The Untouchables, The Brady Bunch, Happy Days, Roseanne, and The Fugitive; more recent titles such as Castle, Lost, Revenge, Desperate Housewives, Grey's Anatomy, and Modern Family; live broadcasts such as Monday Night Football; the reality shows America's Funniest Home Videos, Extreme Makeover: Home Edition, and Dancing with the Stars; and the morning news program Good Morning America. Follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ABCNetwork.In addition to Chicago, open casting will be in these following cities:Los Angeles - Saturday, June 21stLe Cordon Bleu6370 W. Sunset Blvd, Hollywood, CA 9002810am-3pm

Friday, June 13, 2014

There’s another great reason to visit the 65th Annual Old Town Art Fair this weekend, June 14
& 15. Da Lobsta! Take a break from strolling the 250 nationally acclaimed
artists (100 of whom are new) at one of the best juried art fairs in America
and enjoy a delicious authentic Lobster Roll in the heart of the historic Old
Town Triangle. For more information, visit http://www.dalobstachicago.com or OldTownTriangle.com.

Make sure to feed Dad’s sweet tooth craving on Father’s Day, June 15, by heading to Delightful Pastries. Get a Brownie Tray ($25, choose from an assortment of flavors) so the whole family can enjoy a treat, too. Delightful Pastries’ Veggie or Lamb Quiche ($42-$58) are tempting enough to prove real men DO eat quiche. Be sure to pick up any of Dad’s favorite treats, whether it is cookies or cakes, at any of the Delightful Pastries locations, Jefferson Park, Old Town and Chicago French Market. Visit http://www.delightfulpastries.com for more ideas.

Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Throughout his seventeen year career, Executive Chef Paul Choi has developed a multicultural contemporary food sensibility, and he never strays from his commitment to serving creative dishes made from fresh, high quality ingredients. He began his career working as a line cook for acclaimed Chef Shawn McClain at Evanston’s eponymous restaurant, Trio, preparing outstanding contemporary American cuisine. While he worked at Trio in the evening, during the daytime Choi completed the rigorous culinary program at Kendall College where he rounded out his skills with a focus on classical French technique.

After leaving Trio, Choi went to work for award winning Chef Kelly Courtney, working virtually every station at OKNO restaurant as he prepared contemporary global cuisine. He then moved to her restaurant MOD where he prepared cutting edge bistro fare.

Choi was then appointed Sous Chef at Tizi Mellou, a highly regarded Mediterranean fusion restaurant. In the fall of 2000, Choi was recruited to be the opening Chef de Cuisine for Bistro Marbuzet, a casual French Restaurant in Forest Park. Later he also assumed the same role for Jacks on Halsted, a contemporary American grill, with the same company.

In 2002, Restaurant Development Group (RDG) had a need for a Corporate Chef for their Bar Louie concepts as well as the newly developed Red Star Tavern concept. In the short span of two years, Choi oversaw the opening of 28 restaurants in total.

Wanting to continue to learn and grow, Choi joined Chicago’s renowned Blue Plate Catering in 2004 to hone his skill in the planning and production of everything from small, private dinner parties to corporate events of 1000. From there he became the Chef de Cuisine of Jordan’s Food of Distinction, a high-end catering company in Chicago.

In 2007, Choi was bitten by the bug to open his own restaurant, Sura, located in the Lakeview area of Chicago. Although well liked and well-reviewed, Choi’s Contemporary Korean restaurant could not survive the economic downturn that claimed many restaurants that opened around this time.

Looking for a change and matching his love for the outdoors, Choi signed on to be the Chef at Sandy River Lodge in Sandy River, Alaska for the summer fishing season. Returning to Chicago after the season, Choi rejoined the staff at Jordan’s Food of Distinction. However his love of Alaska kept pulling on him and in 2010 he returned, this time to the remote fishing village of Cordova, home of the world famous “Copper River Salmon,” as the Executive Chef and General Manager of the Reluctant Fisherman Inn. After three years he returned to Chicago in August of 2012 for family reasons.

Upon his return to Chicago, he accepted the position as Executive Chef at the Chicago Botanic Gardens in Highland Park. There he developed a reputation for providing extraordinary cuisine in both their casual restaurant as well as high-end catered parties for donors and patrons.

In January of 2014, Choi was selected to be the Executive Chef at Karma Asian Food & Fine Wine. His first task was to retool the menu and incorporate his signature of style of contemporary, clean flavor profiles. Combining his Asian background with his classical French technique, he has completely revamped the menu with guest favorites such as Firecracker Shrimp, Korean BBQ Glazed Ribeye Steak and Sweet Ginger Bread Pudding.

Choi appreciates the opportunity that “Asian Fusion” gives him to explore the cuisines of Korea, China and Japan while melding in some subtle American influences. Focusing on sustainability and quality, Choi strives to procure the freshest and best local ingredients possible. He relishes the fact that when people enjoy the food they are eating, it can change their mood and outlook on life. This is a core value that motivates him to continually challenge himself and his staff to provide the most memorable dining experience possible.

Tuesday, June 10, 2014

It may be the French Queen Marie Antoinette who said “Let them eat cake,” but you’ll be thanking the Germans when you try Delightful Pastries’ German Chocolate Cake ($42/8-inch; $5.25/slice). From the kitchen of Delightful Pastries emerges a tried and true recipe that will satisfy all chocolate lovers’ cravings. Made with a perfect combination of a moist pecan and coconut filling and chocolate butter cream, you will not want to miss out on this special cake. Whether you pick up a cake to share with others, or choose a German Chocolate Cake Cupcake ($2.49-3.00) for your own delicious consumption, make sure you get your hands on this rich treat on June 11.

The German Chocolate Cake, as well as other baked from scratch cakes and pastries, can be found at all three Delightful Pastries locations: Old Town at 1710 N. Wells St., (312) 255-0724; Jefferson Park at 5927 W. Lawrence, (773) 545-7215, and Chicago French Market at 131 N. Clinton, (312) 234-9644. Visit http://www.delightfulpastries.com for more information.

Monday, June 9, 2014

Beginning sometime in June, Da Lobsta’s first lobster food truck will be on a roll throughout Chicagoland,

serving up its unique take on lobster rolls and other lobster delights. The truck will be all over the area, from downtown, through the neighborhoods and even in the suburbs. You’ll also start seeing it at street fairs and festivals throughout the area.

Da Lobsta’s food truck promises to raise the bar for food trucks in the Chicago area."Until now, food trucks have offered quick, inexpensive meals and treats to go, at a very low price point," said J Wolf, Da Lobsta’s owner and founder.

"These foods definitely have their place, but the Da Lobsta truck will be different—we’re offering upscale food at a higher, but still reasonable price point. We believe that Chicagoans are ready to enjoy better quality and more creative fare from food trucks. Our delicious lobster rolls, sandwiches and other items are designed to appeal to food lovers who have been craving a great lobster experience at an affordable price. We’re excited to be leading the way with this new level of food truck service."

The past year has been a very successful introductory period for Da Lobsta, which has established two popular locations in Chicago. "Because the demand for our products has been so high, we chose to launch a food truck so we could reach a wide audience while familiarizing more and more people with our brand," said Wolf. "The truck will give us important experience in this important new sector of the business."

Da Lobsta’s food truck is poised to raise the standard for food trucks in Chicago. It will be the first to serve upscale food rather than fast food and snacks from a food truck, and yet the prices will be very reasonable. To find out where the Da Lobsta Food Truck will be, follow their special Twitter feed at #finddalobsta.Da Lobsta earned more than $1 million in year one with its two locations, 12 E. Cedar and 131 N. Clinton at the Chicago French Market. To raise the capital needed to build and equip the truck, Da Lobsta turned to Bolstr, a marketplace where successful local businesses access growth funding to scale. The Bolstr campaign was such a success that the needed funds were raised in only four days. "People know a good thing when they see it, and so we’re weren’t surprised that we raised the funds, but we were overjoyed, to say the least, when it took so little time," said Wolf. "We are proud that Chicagoans have such confidence in us, and we will do everything we can to make this a smart investment and a successful avenue for building our growing community of fans."

For those not familiar with Da Lobsta, think the American Dream on a bun. Da Lobsta serves authentic New England lobster roll sandwiches in addition to several varieties with a tasty twist. The menu also is filled with lobster, crab and shrimp specialties, such as Lobster and Crab Spinach dip, Lobster Grilled Cheese, New England Clam Chowda, Lobster Mac-N-Cheese, and delicious Chopped Salads. Creative lobster roll sandwiches, which can be made with lobster, blue crab or shrimp, include the Asian, the Mexican, the Greek, and the Indian.

"We were first to the market by offering an upscale lobster roll product at fast-casual prices, making it affordable for the masses," said Wolf, founder and owner. "We knew Chicagoans love their lobster and there was pent-up demand for lobster served at an affordable price. We have solved the riddle as to how to do it really well at a reasonably low price point."

Da Lobsta’s Lobster Roll sandwiches are priced at $12.95, and they have clearly raised the bar. Da Lobsta fans can still enjoy all of the great menu items at the two "bricks and mortar" locations, but soon Chicagoans will begin to see enthusiastic lines of people standing alongside the Da Lobsta food truck, waiting to enjoy their delicious goodies in the fresh air of summertime.

For more information about Da Lobsta and to view the menu online, please visit the website at www.dalobstachicago.com.

Saturday, June 7, 2014

Many of us could celebrate doughnut day every day, but June 8 is THE day to eat a doughnut, as it is Jelly-Filled Doughnut Day. Delightful Pastries has doughnuts filled with jelly every way you could imagine. Paczki doughnuts ($2-2.50) are a must have for any doughnut lover, filled with the assorted flavors of plum jelly, raspberry jelly and custard. If you need something to help kick start your day, try the boozy versions of the Paczki ($3.25), filled with whiskey, moonshine or vodka; they are a sure way make your day a little more memorable.

And while you’re at it, enjoy yourself as you browse the wide range of breads, pastries, cookies, cakes, brownies and savory delights that have made Delightful Pastries one of the most beloved bakeries in the Chicago area.

The Jelly-Filled Doughnuts and other pastry and dessert items can be found at all three Delightful Pastries locations: Old Town at 1710 N. Wells St., (312) 255-0724; Jefferson Park at 5927 W. Lawrence, (773) 545-7215, and Chicago French Market at 131 N. Clinton, (312) 234-9644. Visit http://www.delightfulpastries.com for more information.

Friday, June 6, 2014

Throughout June, Karma Asian Food and Wine, which is one of the most beautiful food lovers’ restaurants in Chicago’s northern suburbs, has just given its fans another great reason to stop by for lunch or dinner: a bottle of wine for one penny. Guests who order two entrées can purchase a bottle of either house red or white wine for an extra cent (there is a limit of one bottle for every two persons). This may be the most enticing wine offer to come along in a long time.

“We’re so excited about our new Executive Chef, Paul Choi, and our new menu, that we’re giving our friends, and hopefully many new friends, the most wonderful reason to visit Karma Asian Food and Wine,” said Todd Gunderson, Regional Restaurant Manager. “Our one-penny bottles of wine are actually excellent selections that everyone will enjoy to accompany our amazing cuisine.”

Guests will have no trouble finding something delicious to relish with their wine, as each food creation is made from top quality, fresh ingredients and is beautifully presented. Among Chef Choi’s new entrée specialties are the signature Korean BBQ Glazed Rib Eye ($26), served with sticky steamed rice and wilted ginger spinach that goes beautifully with a red wine, and the Crispy Tuna ($26), served with seasonal greens, wasabi vinaigrette and sesame-soy, well paired with a refreshing white wine.

About KarmaKarma, a stunning contemporary restaurant serving fine Modern Asian Fusion cuisine from Executive Chef Paul Choi, is open seven days a week 6 a.m.-10:30 a.m. for breakfast; 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. for lunch; 5 p.m.-10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday for dinner; and 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Friday and Saturday for dinner. Karma Pub is open 5 p.m.-11 p.m. Sunday through Thursday; and 5 p.m.-midnight Friday and Saturday. Karma is located adjacent to the DoubleTree by Hilton Mundelein Hotel at 510 East Route 83, Mundelein, IL 60060. For reservations or more information, call Karma at (847) 970-6900 or visit www.karmachicago.com.

Da Lobsta, which has taken Chicago by storm with its creative, delicious take on the Lobster Roll sandwich plus other lobster delights, has added some refreshing and fun items to its menu for summer. Da Lobsta has two locations: The Gold Coast location is at 12 E. Cedar St. in Chicago (312-929-2423) and the Chicago French Market location, in the French Market, is at 131 N. Clinton St. in Chicago.

As a starter or side dish, the Lobster Deviled Eggs (four for $6; available at the Gold Coast location only) are a cool enhancement to your meal or simply a delicious protein-rich snack. These chilled bites of yumminess are topped with chunks of lobster—the deviled egg never had it so good!

If you thought sliders were just about burgers, think again. Da Lobsta has created the Hawaiian Lobster Sliders (three for $12; available at the Gold Coast location only), a trio of mini-sandwiches featuring chunks of lobster meat, fresh pineapple and mayo, served on a mini-Hawaiian bun. When you’re in the mood for a luscious taco fix, Da Lobsta has come out with two tasty versions. The Da Lobsta Lobster Taco ($8 each or two for $12; available at the Gold Coast location only) features chunks of succulent lobster meat, Mexican rice and black beans topped with Sriracha mayo, avocado, Chihuahua cheese and cilantro. The Mango Chipotle Shrimp Taco ($6 each or two for $10; available at the Gold Coast location only) features shrimp, mango, chipotle mayo and cilantro.

Poutines are another hot trend this summer and Da Lobsta is right on top of it, with its kettle Chip Lobster Poutine ($6.50). Served right in the bag, this perfect snack features house-made cheese sauce, Chihuahua cheese and chunks of lobster meat.
Da Lobsta’s new Lobster Pasta Salad ($6 for 12 oz.; available at the Gold Coast location only) features chilled pasta, chunks of lobster meat blended with herbs and mayo.

Salad lovers have two new items to try this summer. The Lobster Kale Salad ($12.95; available at the Gold Coast location and the French Market location) is Da Lobsta’s salute to kale, the very popular and healthful green. The salad combines chunks of lobster meat, fresh kale, roasted corn and peppers, and feta cheese tossed in a zesty vinaigrette dressing.

After being cooped up all winter, it is time to get outside and celebrate summer with Delightful Pastries.

Delightful Pastries is hitting the streets and will be seen all over town at local Farmer’s Markets. Beat the heat with chilled desserts and drinks, as well as Delightful Pastries’ popular pierogi and delicious sandwiches on croissants made with real butter, all being sold across town at different markets. Grab lunch while shopping and enjoy Delightful Pastries Thanksgiving, Polish or Big Fish sandwich. You can find Delightful Pastries at Argyle Night Market, Lincoln Square Market, Daley Plaza Market, Division Street Market and Independence Park Market this summer, so keep your eyes peeled for them…your sweet tooth will thank you.

Thursday, June 5, 2014

Delightful Pastries’ The Thanksgiving Sandwich ($8.25-8.95) will have you dreaming about turkey all year round,
not just at Thanksgiving. Since June is National Turkey Lover’s Month,
now is the best time to get your hands on this salivating sandwich. Made
with turkey breast, Swiss cheese, Dijon mustard, homemade horseradish,
mayonnaise, cranberry sauce, tomato and field greens, all sandwiched
between your choice of Delightful Pastries’ homemade butter croissant,
seven grain bread, and sunflower rye bread. For the perfect summer
picnic, stop by any of Delightful Pastries three locations and grab The
Thanksgiving, and any of their desserts, and head to the beach or park
for a great outdoor meal.

The Thanksgiving and other enticing
Café items are all available at the Wells Street location and Chicago
French Market: Old Town at 1710 N. Wells St., (312) 255-0724; and
Chicago French Market at 131 N. Clinton, (312) 234-9644. Visit http://www.delightfulpastries.com for more information.

Wednesday, June 4, 2014

Chicago’s lobster fans will have another great team to cheer for on June 5 when Da Lobsta’s team of lobster roll craftspeople competes in the 5th annual Lobster Rumble in New York City. This culinary showdown, hosted by Tasting Table, features 24 of the country’s top seafood restaurants that will all be competing for top honors. Proceeds benefit Share Our Strength. "We are very proud to be a part of this great event," said J Wolf, owner and founder. "We will face off against some formidable competition from across the country, but we’re confident that our passion and creativity will put us in the hunt for the title."

If Da Lobsta’s stature can be measured by its fellow competitors in the Lobster Rumble, it’s considered among the elite. Other contestants include B&G Oysters from Boston; Betony from New York City; Eventide Oyster Company from Portland, Maine; the Dock & Roll Diner from Austin, Texas; Roberts Maine Grill from Kittery, Maine; Thames Street Oyster House from Baltimore; the Clam Shack from Kennebunkport, Maine; L&W Oyster Company from New York City; the Mermaid Inn from New York City; the Ordinary Fancy Seafood Oyster Hall from Charleston, S.C.; Macchialina from Miami; Lobster Joint from New York City; Lure Fishbar from Miami; Luke’s from the New York City and Washington, DC areas.

Tickets for Lobster Rumble in New York City can be purchased online; VIP tickets are $265 per person, and general admission is $165 per person. Tickets include unlimited visits to 24 lobster stations and open bar, from 7-10 p.m. VIP tickets include the VIP lounge from 6-7 p.m.

Monday, June 2, 2014

Delightful Pastries is an egg-xpert on how to make delicious eggs, not matter which way you like them. Stop by June 3 to try any of their tantalizing egg options. If you wake up and are eager for your egg fix, head to the Delightful Pastries Café as quickly as possible. Make sure to try the Bacon, Bacon Yum ($9.95), with two eggs scrambled with ham, two strips of bacon and one slice of extra, extra thick cut bacon or either the British Mob Movie ($9.95) made with Pan-fried potato, tomato braised beans w/ mixed vegetable, sunny side up eggs, extra-thick-cut-bacon, blood sausage or the Eggs Benedict ($9.95) with Polish ham, homemade everything bun, Hollandaise sauce w/ vodka, poached eggs. Delightful Pastries also offersegg-xcellent two egg omelets ($9.95-10.95) served with vegetables and cheese.

If you missed your egg protein fix in the morning or simply crave more eggs for lunch, then Delightful Pastries has you covered. Try their Breakfast Sandwich ($6.95) with bacon, ham, scrambled eggs and cheddar or add an egg to any of their fresh sandwiches or a slice of Quiche ($5.75). Whatever you do, make sure not to let June 3 slip by without enjoying an enticing egg dish from Delightful Pastries.

Breakfast and Lunch items are all available at the Wells Street location and Chicago French Market: Old Town at 1710 N. Wells St., (312) 255-0724; and Chicago French Market at 131 N. Clinton, (312) 234-9644. Visit http://www.delightfulpastries.comfor more information.

June is the month to celebrate lobster, one of America’s favorite food cravings. Da Lobsta is the place to celebrate National Lobster Month—and National Lobster Day on June 15—because it’s the fast-casual restaurant where Chicagoans can have their fill time and time again, without breaking the bank. Da Lobsta has mastered the art of delicious yet affordable lobster, and they offer it in so many ways that there is something for everyone throughout the month.

The signature item at Da Lobsta is the Lobster Roll, a traditional New England sandwich with big chunks of lobster meat served on a grilled, buttery roll with mayonnaise. But Da Lobsta goes much, much further, with a variety of Lobster Roll sandwiches that are sure to please Chicago’s sophisticated food lovers. Da Lobsta fans can also choose Asian, Mexican, Greek and Indian versions because Da Lobsta’s lobster rolls are inspired by global cuisine.

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